In a landmark move to create a stronger safety net for its citizens, the Adamawa State House of Assembly has officially passed the Social Protection Bill, a piece of legislation aimed at transforming the lives of the state’s most vulnerable residents.
The bill is designed to act as a shield for those facing hardship, aiming to lift the standard of living for people in disadvantaged situations. It promises a new era of coordinated, reliable support for a wide range of groups, including the physically challenged, the unemployed, the elderly, widows, and those battling chronic illness.
The final hurdle for the Social Protection Bill was cleared during its third reading on Monday. The motion was championed by the Assembly’s Majority Leader and the bill’s primary sponsor, Kate Mamuno.
Showing a rare moment of legislative unity, the motion was seconded by House Minority Leader Sulaiman Umar Alkali, signaling broad support for the initiative across party lines.
Following a period of deliberation, the House voted to pass the bill for the third and final time. The session was presided over by Speaker Bathiya Wesley, who directed the Clerk of the House to finalize a clean copy of the document.
The bill now moves to the Governor’s desk for assent, which is the final step before it officially becomes law.
The development of this critical legislation was a collaborative effort, receiving significant backing from international partners. It was crafted with the support of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development and the European Union, with implementation led by GIZ Nigeria.